Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Mesothelioma and Veterans

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Survivors

Typically, the prognosis for patients diagnosed with mesothelioma is rather grim. However, despite the statistically low survival rate of mesothelioma, some patients have surpassed the typical life expectancy prognoses. These patients have lived for years after being diagnosed with the rare, aggressive cancer. The reasons for why some individuals are able to survive so long despite being diagnosed with a known deadly disease are unknown. But survivors are a symbol of hope for those suffering from mesothelioma and their loved ones.

Early Detection of Mesothelioma

Early detection of the rare and deadly cancer may be one of the contributing factors for surpassing life expectancies. Survival rates increase the earlier mesothelioma is detected since more treatment options are available for the patient. Surgery, the most effective tool in combating mesothelioma, is usually only available for those who are in the earlier stages of the cancer. Specialists have a better chance of removing the tumor or in some cases the affected organ, before it has a chance to spread to other parts of the body. Also, there are blood tests now available, such as the Mesomark test, which allows doctors to diagnose mesothelioma much earlier than before. This way, patients can get curative rather than palliative treatments.

Mesothelioma Patients That Outlive Diagnosis

Life expectancy can vary widely among mesothelioma patients. Some of the determining factors can include age, gender, the severity of the disease and the location of the tumor. For example, patients with mesothelioma who are 65 years or older have a decreased chance of survival, while younger patients, and those who are healthy, have a better chance. However, since many of the people who were exposed to asbestos, which has been known to cause mesothelioma almost exclusively, worked around the fibers before the 1970s, the cancer may be in the later stages of progression by the time they see a doctor. Also, the symptoms have a latency period of several decades.

But those who have lived longer than their diagnosis have used treatments and therapies that strengthen the immune system. Many of the survivors went through alternative treatments in addition to traditional treatments. Immunology treatments and other alternative treatments are meant to help enhance the immune system which, doctors have discovered, mesothelioma tends to weaken as it spreads. Over time, mesothelioma progresses through the body, weakening the immune system and breaking down the body's surveillance system which then helps it spread faster.

Seeking Medical Assistance

For all of these reasons, it is important to seek medical examinations as soon as possible. If you believe you or a loved one was exposed to asbestos, inform your doctor of this so that they can take measures to diagnose the cancer. The earlier mesothelioma is detected, the earlier treatments can be administered. The list of survivors is becoming longer because of proactive actions taken to get help. If you want to become a survivor of mesothelioma, seek medical assistance today. Contact a lawyer to see about getting asbestos compensation as well.